Two of Lynn’s brightest young boxing talents have made their club proud with outstanding performances in the England Boxing Championships, proving the future is bright for the town’s rising stars.

Bobby Mitchell, representing King’s Lynn Youth ABC, produced a remarkable run to the national final, eventually finishing as England’s number two after a controversial split-decision defeat.

Having been crowned Eastern Counties champion, Mitchell progressed to the quarter-finals, where he faced Joel Lavender of Ultimate ABC, Lowestoft.

Lavender arrived with an impressive record, having suffered just one previous defeat - also against Mitchell. But the Lynn youngster followed his corner’s instructions superbly to secure victory.

In the semi-finals, Mitchell faced his toughest challenge yet against Midlands champion Joseph Byrne of Wellington BA, who boasted eight wins from eight contests, including three stoppages.

Undaunted, Mitchell produced a magnificent display of controlled aggression, accurate punching and determination, winning every round to claim a unanimous points victory.

The final saw Mitchell face Raul Dzahiberov of Finchley ABC in a fiercely contested encounter.

Despite a tremendous performance, Mitchell narrowly missed out on the national crown following a 3-2 split decision.

Head coach Richard Girdlestone praised his boxer’s achievement, which followed clubmate Jack Fox’s national title triumph last year.

Meanwhile, fellow club prospect Alfie Koziel demonstrated equally impressive talent and courage in the Eastern Counties Championships.

Koziel defeated previously unbeaten Ed Thomas Butler of Ultimate ABC, who entered with seven victories from seven bouts.

Displaying excellent footwork, speed and boxing intelligence, Koziel secured a convincing unanimous points victory.

However, a back strain sustained during the contest threatened his participation in the following day’s final against Luke Ring of New Ashby.

Determined not to miss his opportunity, Koziel bravely entered the ring despite his injury.

Although his movement was restricted, he produced another spirited performance, narrowly losing on a split decision to Ring, who subsequently became national champion.

Girdlestone praised both youngsters and credited the dedication of fellow coaches Dave Butcher, Ryan Finch, Mel Payne and Tim Ellis for the club’s continued success.

“Our hard work and dedication are paying off,” he said. “We are becoming a tough club to beat.

“Bobby and Alfie are going to be stars. The future is very bright.”

With national success becoming increasingly familiar, Lynn Youth ABC continues to establish itself as a formidable force in amateur boxing.